Winchester City Council launch community support hub for individuals affected by the crisis in Ukraine
Every Tuesday throughout June, Winchester City Council will be hosting a community support hub to help individuals in the city affected by the crisis in Ukraine. Ukrainian citizens and hosts can attend the free of charge drop-in centre to get advice, guidance and support for housing, employment opportunities, information about benefits and financial aid initiatives as well as more general support.
Friendly staff will be on hand to lend practical as well as emotional support for those that need it. The hub will be held between 10-2pm, beginning tomorrow (7 June) in the Courtyard Room at Winchester Guildhall, access will be available via the Visitor Information Centre on the High Street.
The community support hub has been introduced as part of Winchester City Council’s commitment to supporting the City of Sanctuary movement, welcoming individuals seeking a safe place to take refuge. The council are working closely with the government to meet the needs of people fleeing Ukraine and in need of support and comfort.
Cllr Martin Tod, Leader of Winchester City Council said:
“The brutal Russian invasion of Ukraine continues to send shock waves around the world. It is vitally important that we do all we possibly can to help and support those individuals affected by the war.
“In Winchester, local people have welcomed more Ukrainian citizens than anywhere else in the county. It’s something to be proud of and the council is committed to playing its part – alongside local people and community organisations – in providing a safe, friendly, and supportive community for those fleeing the conflict.
“The community hub will provide a safe space for individuals to get help and support for varying needs, both practical and emotional and as a council and a community we will continue to develop the help and support needed. As we learn more about the needs of our guests and hosts, the support we provide will evolve to make sure we’re doing what’s needed to make our guests’ very difficult personal circumstances easier.”